Eight Storey Newcastle Development Revealed

Plans to build an eight-storey student housing development on a derelict piece of land in Newcastle city centre have taken a step forward.

Last year Versant Developments bought the land, situated on the corner of Westgate Road and St James' Boulevard, 12 years after the Carlisle Hotel was demolished.

After initial discussions with Newcastle City Council, the company has now submitted plans to develop a 70-bed student accommodation block on the site, which the firm believes will inject an extra £1.4m a year into the local economy.

The plans also include space for a common room, laundry facilities, games room, cycle storage and refuse and recycling facilities.

The design and access statement submitted as part of the proposals says the plans seek to revive the vacant and derelict site.

It said: "The market research would indicate a high level of demand in this prime location, thus removing any speculative aspect to the application proposal. Following the demolition of the former Carlisle Hotel, the site represents a long term gap site at a strategic location.

"By any criteria this site is a gateway site and presents and exciting opportunity to create a landmark building."

Developers also argued the site would contribute significantly to the local economy helping to underpin the economic viability and vibrancy of the area. In addition expectations are that through the creation of purpose-built student accommodation, dwellings currently used as houses of multiple occupation can be released back into the wider property market.